Breeding behavior in a flock of Chilean flamingos (Phoenicopterus chilensis) at Dublin Zoo

The breeding behavior of a flock of Chilean flamingos was observed over a 3 -month period during the peak of breeding activity. This species' habitat i s becoming increasingly vulnerable, and concern has been raised over a decl ine in wild stocks numbers in the past two decades. Breeding programs in to es have been established, but with limited success because little is known about the precise criteria and conditions required for breeding these anima ls. This study was undertaken to gain insight into the breeding behavior of captive Chilean flamingos. A catalogue of mating rituals, nest acquisition and defense, and egg incubation behavior was obtained. The results suggest that new additions to the colony may trigger breeding in the subsequent ye ar and that rainfall has little effect on captive reproductive success. Ind ividually identifiable flamingos were followed throughout the breeding seas on and detailed quantitative data on their nesting, copulation, and social interactions were obtained. (C) 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.